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| Associate Director, Amy Rauworth |
If your New Year's resolutions involve getting into shape, it could be a good time to check out your local gym. A recent story from the Associated Press
(found at http://dispatch.com/live/content/life/stories/2009/01/05/1_SLIM_GYMS.ART_ART_
01-05-09_D1_E2CD2S1.html?sid=101) emphasizes the effect that the economy is having on the fitness industry. By taking advantage of waived membership fees, enrolling in contests, and negotiating for additional benefits, you can save a bundle of cash. January is your time to act to take advantage of the deals. If you are a person with a disability, also consider asking for an adjusted rate that is proportionate to the areas of the facility that are accessible to you. Times are tough, but health should be your priority. Did you know that just by cutting out name-brand coffee purchases every week, you could save enough to pay for your membership! Buyers beware, make sure to read the fine print and consider the benefits and disadvantages to signing an extended contract for a year or more. Every member counts these days, so see if you can join for the amount of time that fits your budget and does not cause you financial concern.
Coming Soon! For the first time ever, NCHPAD is creating a virtual trainer program where you sign up to receive weekly tips that will help you reach your health and fitness goals in 2009. You will gain exclusive access to our physical activity and nutrition experts that can provide personalized guidance to you during this 12-week program. To submit topics or tips that you feel would be beneficial to receive throughout the 12 weeks, send your ideas to me at amyr@lakeshore.org. So start recruiting your friends and stay tuned to our website for details on the launching of this exciting new program.
Things to know before you go...check out the following NCHPAD factsheets:
- How to Choose a Fitness Center
http://www.ncpad.org/308/1909/Choosing~a~Fitness~Center - How to Choose a Personal Trainer
http://www.ncpad.org/332/1982/How~to~Choose~a~Personal~Trainer.
SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Hazards of Inactivity
- Double the risk of diabetes
- Increased risk of cancer
- Increased risk of dementia
- Increased risk of a heart attack
- Increased risk of a stroke
- Lose muscle mass
- Weakens bones
- More likely to be depressed
- More likely to gain excess weight
Level of physical inactivity observed among people with disabilities has been linked to:
- Increase in the severity of their disability
- Decrease in their involvement in community activities
For comments and feedback, please feel free to contact Amy Rauworth at amyr@lakeshore.org.